Workshop summary: The Role of Regional Organizations in Strengthening Cybersecurity and Stability
Capacity development, Cybersecurity BlogsThe workshop focused on the crucial role of regional organizations in enhancing cybersecurity and stability. Discussions highlighted the importance of regional bodies complementing international efforts and implementing cybersecurity norms. Progress in cyberspace was acknowledged, with an emphasis on the need for further cooperation and capacity-building. Concerns about cybercrime, security breaches, privacy, and the militarization of cybersecurity were also raised. Capacity building and awareness initiatives were emphasized, along with the potential benefits and challenges of regional organizations overlapping in their cybersecurity efforts. Additionally, the applicability of international humanitarian law in cyberspace was discussed to ensure protection of civilians and critical infrastructure.
Digital identities: Issues and cases
Alumni Digital divide, E-commerce and trade, Gender rights online, Privacy and data protection, Sustainable development BlogsLow and middle income countries are implementing digital identification systems, raising concerns about privacy and control over personal information. These systems aim to enhance social and economic inclusion but also pose risks such as political manipulation and exclusion of marginalized groups. The shift towards "self-sovereign identity" models, emphasizing individual control and protection of privacy, is proposed as a solution to mitigate these risks. Ensuring that digital identity promotes the common good and protects individuals from harm requires a balance between state surveillance capabilities and safeguarding human rights.
Ten years of bitcoin and a look back at 2018
Blockchain, Cryptocurrencies, E-commerce and trade, Telecommunications infrastructure BlogsThe text reflects on the 10-year anniversary of bitcoin and examines 2018 in retrospect. It discusses the rise and fall of cryptocurrencies, regulatory developments, infrastructure improvements, challenges faced by the mining industry, the emergence of national cryptocurrencies, and the ongoing importance of digital currencies for e-commerce and financial inclusion. As the industry moves forward, the text hints at a potential crackdown on unregulated security offerings in 2019.
The right of consular access: Two recent examples
Diplomatic functions and tools, Diplomatic service, Humanitarian diplomacy, Internet governance and digital policy, Jurisdiction, Legal and regulatory BlogsThe text discusses two recent examples highlighting the importance of consular access. One pertains to Mexico's case against the United States for failing to provide consular services to Mexican nationals, leading to their execution despite ICJ orders. The second case involves India and Pakistan, where Pakistan voted in favor of a resolution for consular access while simultaneously requiring India's assistance in an ongoing case. It raises questions about delays in providing consular services, the obligation of sending states, and the unconditional nature of consular assistance under international human rights.
[Webinar summary] What is the role of the private sector towards a peaceful cyberspace?
BlogsThe webinar discussed the private sector's role in ensuring international peace and security in cyberspace. It highlighted the diverse actors within the private sector, the need for companies to be involved in cybersecurity processes, and the social responsibility of tech companies. The private sector's responsibility to reduce vulnerabilities, secure critical infrastructure, and engage in capacity building for emerging technologies were also emphasized. Challenges such as balancing profitability with service delivery and addressing vulnerabilities in legacy systems were addressed during the discussion.
At the table with the Paris Call for Trust and Security in Cyberspace
Cybernorms, Cybersecurity, Internet governance and digital policy BlogsFrench President Emmanuel Macron launched the Paris Call for Trust and Security in Cyberspace at the 2018 Internet Governance Forum in Paris. The declaration outlines principles for securing cyberspace and has seen support from various entities, but some major countries are notably absent. The Paris Call emphasizes preventative measures, support for victims of cybercrime, and the responsibilities of the private sector. It complements existing initiatives and will be evaluated at upcoming forums. Macron's aim is to address cybersecurity risks while bringing diverse stakeholders together. The success and reception of the Paris Call remains to be seen.
New book: The Diplomacy of Ancient Greece: A Short Introduction
Diplomatic theory and practice, Economic diplomacy, History of diplomacy, Online education BlogsA new e-book, "The Diplomacy of Ancient Greece: A Short Introduction" by G.R. Berridge, sheds light on ancient Greek diplomatic methods and their relevance today. It delves into the historical context, personnel, and forms of ancient Greek diplomacy, highlighting the importance of this often overlooked aspect of ancient Greek society. Drawing on primary sources like Herodotus and Thucydides, the book offers a comprehensive overview suitable for both students and general readers interested in diplomacy. The publication is the first in a series aiming to make introductory works on diplomacy accessible and affordable, with plans for future contributions from different authors.
[WebDebate #26 summary] AI on the international agenda – where do we go from here?
Artificial Intelligence, Diplomatic theory and practice, Ethics BlogsIn a WebDebate titled "AI on the international agenda – where do we go from here?", experts discussed the economic and military implications of AI, emphasizing the need for global cooperation. Key topics included the impact of AI on the future of work and challenges related to governance and transparency. The debate highlighted the importance of human control over AI decisions, ethical considerations, and the need for policymakers to have interdisciplinary knowledge and skills to navigate the complex landscape of AI technologies effectively.
[Webinar summary] What is the role of civil society and communities towards a peaceful cyberspace?
Civil society BlogsA webinar discussed the crucial roles of civil society and the technical community in ensuring international peace and security in cyberspace. Civil society's diversity and technical community's unique perspective were highlighted. The importance of both groups in the development, implementation, and operationalization of norms was emphasized. Acknowledging the evolving landscape of critical infrastructure, the webinar underscored the necessity for their involvement in policy discussions and incident responses. The webinar concluded with a call for more multistakeholder dialogues, underscoring the significance of ongoing efforts like the Geneva Dialogue on Responsible Behaviour in Cyberspace.
Internet governance in November 2018
Gender rights online, Internet governance and digital policy BlogsIn November 2018, key digital policy developments were highlighted, including new cybersecurity initiatives, ethical considerations in AI development, and issues concerning the gig economy. The Internet Governance Barometer summarized major events, such as the Paris Call for Trust in Cyberspace and the launch of the 'Contract for the Web'. Trending topics included cybersecurity resolutions, ethical AI design concepts, and regulations for gig economy workers. The next briefing will cover the G7 Multistakeholder Conference on AI, Africa eCommerce Week, and the Global Forum on Digital Security. Various regional updates were also provided.
